Abstract: A method of making an axial filament structure for a lamp in which the filament is concentric with the axis of the envelope, wherein a hook-like shape (131) is formed in a support member (117) which stretches the filament to its final turns-per-inch ratio.

Abstract: A base for three-way lamps in which it is easier to feed lead wires through and a method of making such bases.

Abstract: A tool for making bases for three-way lamps in which it is easier to feed lead wires through because the tool has a first projection in the middle of its base which projection has a round cross-section of a given diameter in the plane perpendicular to the tool's longitudinal axis and a second projection having a cross-section in the forementioned plane having a longer circumferential dimension than a radial one and in which the circumferential dimension is at least as large as the diameter of the first projection in the forementioned plane.

Abstract: A high pressure discharge lamp arrangement in which the support wire for the arc tube of the lamp has its end which is inserted in the open tubular electrode structure of the lamp expanded so that its external dimension more nearly equals the internal dimension of the tubular structure.

Abstract: A method of forming a support wire for the arc tube of a discharge lamp wherein a cut end of the support wire is flattened to provide a smooth burr-free surface for insertion into the opening of the niobium tubes located at the ends of the arc tube of the discharge lamp.

Abstract: A ballast adaptor circuit which makes it possible to convert a conventional two lamp rapid start T12 ballast for operation of two T8 fluorescent lamps and by means of a simple modification that does not require cutting wires or extensive rewiring of the T12 ballast device. The adaptor circuit comprises an auxiliary circuit including a tuned series-parallel LC network connected in parallel with either one or both of the lamps. The LC network is tuned to supply an odd harmonic current to the lamps, preferably the seventh harmonic. Improved starting is achieved by adding a series RC circuit and a SIDAC trigger device to the network to produce voltage pulses at the peaks of the AC supply voltage.

Abstract: A method of assembling the arc tube of a high-pressure sodium lamp is disclosed that comprises using a spring clip to engage the lead wire proximate the end plug on the side opposite the electrode coil assembly. The electrode coil assembly is thereby centered relative to the end plug and the three ends of the clip provide planar support of the end plug/electrode on the end of the arc tube. The clip is formed by bending a refractory metal wire 180.degree. about the midpoint, bending the ends of the legs away from each other while maintaining co-planar geometry, and providing an indentation for engaging the lead wire.

Abstract: An energy-saving instant-start series-sequence fluorescent lamp system includes power-reducing capacitor means connected in series circuit arrangement with one or both lamps in a two-lamp system. A protective device is connected in circuit with a first lamp of the system so that in the event the second lamp fails to operate and causes a high current to flow through the first lamp, the protective device reacts to prevent the system from being damaged. A lamp incorporating the power-reducing capacitor and protective device is also disclosed.

Abstract: Sintering aids are disclosed which improve the sintering of emission materials in high pressure discharge lamps. The sintering aid is Nb.sub.2 O.sub.5 or Ta.sub.2 O.sub.5 or a mixture thereof along with an alkaline earth oxide with is mixed in the amount of 2 to 15 weight percent sintering aid with 98 to 85 weight percent electron emissive material.